This three-volume set re-issues the imagery and the texts of a long neglected period. Mauritz van Nassau-Siegen's mission, in the so-called `Dutch Brazil' period, has left one of the most significant records and reports of the flora and fauna of 17th century Brazil. The first volume is composed of letters and small illustrations by expatriate missionaries, while the second documents the natural history of Brazil through the eyes and words of Zacharias Wagener on his meteoric ascent through the hierarchy of the Dutch trading companies. The final volume is lavishly illustrated with paintings of species of birds executed by artists who travelled with Mauritz of Nassau during his seven years in Brazil.